Photo Spread of Mercedario part 3

12.11.2005

Photo Spread of Mercedario part 3

Pictures below.

Looking back on the trip, it was the greatest adventure of my life. Yes, my life was threatened, and we lived on very little food in a remote environment, but it caused me to have a greater appreciation for everything upon my return. Thanks for letting me share my experience!Until the next one, Adios!

Life is good,--Steve

this is the area where the road previously was. We got word a ground rescue team was coming, so we stayed on the lookout.

the rescuers showed up after 3 weeks total time on the mountain. They wouldn't cross this decaying slope so we each made our way accross, dodging falling boulders sometimes as large as small cars. It was the single scariest time of my life.

as I watched the others cross, the dust clouds from the falling boulders obstructed our view, causing question as to whether they had gotten hit, but everyone re-appeared and made their way.

Chuck Huss making his way accross.

the rescue team had a camp set up not too far away.

thanksgiving day feast. (the embassy said they would bring food and medicine--they brought spam and liquor!)

the next day we hiked 9 hours out

little did we know it was only the beginning of a 24 hour day of more hiking through the night and then onto army vehicles.

5 of the 6 of us...skinny (but of course sporting my Eco Lips shirt!)

our first meal in a while at Santana military base(yes we're barefoot)

have you ever ridden in the back of an Argentinian military vehicle? It's makes you fell like this (Chad Swope in the middle)(photo by John Richard)